I AM writing to ask if any of your readers can help me with research I am undertaking into the life and activities of my grandfather, the Rev John Nicholson Balmer, who was the minister at Devonshire Street Congregational Church from 1937 to 1957.

Aside from his church work, I know he was very active in other areas of Keighley life.

I am particularly interested in his role in setting up and running the colony for Basque refugee children at Morton Banks during the Spanish Civil War. It is appropriate to remember this aspect of Keighley history, of which the town can be justly proud, 80 years on from the arrival of the children in 1937.

E-mail at Birkbarn@blueyonder.co.uk or call me on 01226 284410.

JOHN BIRKBECK Victoria Road, Barnsley